Did Jesus really die and rise again? Paul tells us if He didn’t, our faith is worthless and we are still in our sins (1 Corinthians 15:14-17) so it is an important question to settle in our for our faith.
Here are 7 Reasons Why I Know that Jesus Rose From the Dead
1. Eyewitness Accounts
Emphasizing the significance of eyewitness testimonies, various individuals and groups claimed to have seen Jesus alive after his crucifixion. These accounts are documented in the New Testament, with appearances to Mary Magdalene, the disciples, and over 500 people at once. See John 20:11-18, Matthew 28:9-10, Luke 24:13-35, John 20:19-23, John 20:24-29, John 21:1-14, Matthew 28:16-20, 1 Corinthians 15:6-7
2. Empty Tomb
The discovery of Jesus' empty tomb is another critical point. The tomb was found empty by women, whose testimonies were not highly regarded at that time. This detail adds credibility to the story, as it would be unlikely to fabricate such information. See Matthew 28:1-10, Mark 16:1-8, Luke 24:1-12 , John 20:1-10
3. Transformation of the Disciples
Initially fearful and in hiding after Jesus' death, his disciples became bold proclaimers of his resurrection after claiming to have seen him alive. This transformation from fear to courage, even in the face of persecution and martyrdom, supports the truth of their claims. See: John 20:19 vs Acts 4:13 and see below.
4. Early Christian Writings
Early Christian creeds and writings referencing the resurrection, some dating back to shortly after Jesus' death, suggest that belief in the resurrection was foundational to early Christian faith. This indicates that the belief was not a later development but an integral part of early Christianity. See: Justin Martyr "Dialogue with Trypho", Chapter 108. Tertullian "On the Resurrection of the Flesh", Chapter 48. Origen commentary on the Gospel of Matthew, Book 2, Chapter 24.
5. Historical Impact
The rapid growth of Christianity from a small group to a major religious movement within a few centuries is used to argue for the authenticity of the resurrection. Such a significant impact is believed to be difficult to explain without an extraordinary event like the resurrection. There are reasons that Rome made it possible, but why Christianity and not the cult of Mithras? It had even more advantages in the same time period of Roman history.
6. Disciples Zeal
All (but maybe 1 - who was tortured and persecuted*) died because they told people Jesus rose from the dead.
Peter: Crucified upside down in Rome, around AD 64-68 during the persecution under Emperor Nero.
Andrew: Crucified on an X-shaped cross in Patras, Greece, around AD 60-70.
James, son of Zebedee: Beheaded in Jerusalem around AD 44 by Herod Agrippa I.
John*: Died of natural causes in Ephesus around AD 95-100, although there are some traditions that suggest he was martyred.
Philip: Martyred in Hierapolis, Phrygia (modern-day Turkey) by hanging or crucifixion around AD 80.
Bartholomew: Flayed alive and then either crucified or beheaded in Armenia or India.
Matthew: Killed by a sword in Ethiopia or Persia.
Thomas: Speared to death in Mylapore, India, around AD 72.
James, son of Alphaeus: Stoned and clubbed to death in Egypt or Jerusalem.
Thaddaeus (Jude): Martyred with arrows in Beirut or Edessa.
Simon the Zealot: Crucified in Persia or Samaria.
Matthias: Stoned and beheaded in Jerusalem.
Who dies for a good person or to sustain a lie? But this makes sense if they saw Jesus after his death.
7. The difference it’s made in my own life.
So far I’ve stuck with historical, researchable topics, but this reason is my most personal. I’ve confessed with my mouth “Jesus the Lord” and believed in my heart that God raised Him from the dead (Romans 10:9) and I am saved… not only that I know one day I’ll be with Him forever, in a new glorious body and enjoy Him forever, but also from and through the crap that this life can be in the meantime.
Do you have another reason you believe Jesus rose from the dead? Tell me in the comments.
It’s been a long haul. We’ve all had to cope. We had to deal with the reality we’ve been facing. Do we know how to THRIVE? Learn how you can no matter what you're facing today.
The people of Israel were in for the long haul. Jerusalem would be destroyed. They would be taken away into captivity. But God wanted them to be encouraged. His plan was to prosper them and not to harm them. His plan was to give them a hope and future. Isaiah was encouraging them they could trust their maker through the tough stuff.
It’s been a long haul. We’ve all had to cope. We had to deal with the reality we’ve been facing. We know how to hope. Do we know how to THRIVE?
Last time I spoke I reminded you how we can HOPE at all times and in every situation
HOPE at all times and in Every Situation
H - Hold on to testimony - Revelation 12:11 O - Operate in reality - Hebrews 12:7 P - Pour out your heart to God - Philippians 4:6-7 E - Engage your whole heart with hope - Isaiah 40:27-31
But the word that is resonating with me for this year isn’t HOPE, it’s THRIVE. I don’t think it’s going to be all sunshine and rainbows this year. I think it’s a challenge for me to THRIVE in spite of anything that comes my way.
What does it mean to THRIVE?
I believe it means I can have peace and joy AND hope at all times and in every situation. I figured that’s a good definition for THRIVE - peace and joy and hope - it’s all part of the Kingdom. It’s bringing the Kingdom to earth. The Kingdom is righteousness, peace and joy in the Holy Spirit.
Paul starts his letter to the Romans and Peterson transliterates verses 16-17 this way.
Romans 1:16-17 It’s news I’m most proud to proclaim, this extraordinary Message of God’s powerful plan to rescue everyone who trusts him, starting with Jews and then right on to everyone else! God’s way of putting people right shows up in the acts of faith, confirming what Scripture has said all along: “The person in right standing before God by trusting him really lives.”
Are you ready to really live?
Has it been a while since you felt like you’ve really lived?
Guess what? Your standing with God hasn’t changed. His grace is still sufficient. You might have moved away. You might feel like it’s been a while since you’ve really lived. I want to help your feelings line up with your spiritual reality today.
You and I were made for so much more than to just survive. We were made to thrive.
How does the song go?
Joy unspeakable. Faith unsinkable. Love unstopped. Any thing is possible.
You were created to walk with God in the garden in the cool of the day. Sin came into the world and you bore the consequences. Jesus came and reversed the curse and took your place and invited you to take His yoke that is easy and burden that is light. You are a child of God creation longs to be revealed. You are a living light. Do not conform but be transformed, so you can have peace and joy and hope at all times and in every situation.
Today I’m going to share with you the
How to THRIVE Tool
THRIVE
T - Tune into Holy Spirit - Galatians 5:25 H - Honest in my reflection - Proverbs 28:18 R - Rest and to be Renewed - Psalm 127:2 I - Ignite my spiritual fervour - Romans 12:9-17 V - Victoriously live - Romans 8:31-39 E - Embrace who God says I am - 1 Corinthians 6:19-20
T - Tune into Holy Spirit
Galatians 5:25 Since we are living by the Spirit, let us follow the Spirit’s leading in every part of our lives.
How do you do that? The rest of the chapter shows us.
I’ve put it in an acrostic to help you remember - HUMBLE
HUMBLE Yourself Before God and Others
Galatians 5
H - Hope in his promises v.5 (wait patiently to receive) U - Understand faith expresses itself in love v.6 M - Maintain freedom by serving others in love v.13 B - Ban what the sinful nature craves v.16 (Crucify your passions and desires) L - Let the fruit of Spirit grow v.22 (they are going to grow, don’t get in the way) E - Enjoy peace with others v.26 (Follow the Spirit’s leading in every area)
That’s what Paul tells the Galatians it means to keep in step with the Spirit.
How have you been doing with that?
What would Holy Spirit tell you if you ask him if your keeping in step with him?
To THRIVE we need to be HUMBLE
To THRIVE we need to remember to be HUMBLE so we can tune into Holy Spirit.
H - Honest in your reflection
Proverbs 28:18 “The one whose walk is blameless is kept safe, but the one whose ways are perverse will fall into the pit.”
In order to THRIVE we need to be honest in three ways.
1. Honest with ourselves - admit when we’re struggling 2. Honest with those around us - be vulnerable when we need help 3. Honest with God - practice lament and admit we need his help through
Yes, we praise him in the storm. Yes, we praise him before the battle is won. Yes, we praise him before the answer comes, and when we do that with gratitude it changes our attitude.
Psalm 103:2 Let all I am praise the Lord; may I never forget the good things he does for me.
But we don’t put on plastic masks and say, “Thank you Jesus” when we feel everything but gratitude. We need to be honest in our reflection. We need to pour out our heart to God. We need to exchange our problems for his peace.
Are you honest in your reflection?
Do you turn from his gaze?
What would Holy Spirit impress on you if you asked him?
T - Tune into Holy Spirit - Galatians 5:25 H - Honest in my reflection - Proverbs 28:18
R - Rest and to be Renewed
Psalm 127:2 It is useless for you to work so hard from early morning until late at night, anxiously working for food to eat; for God gives rest to his loved ones.
What is rest?
Isaiah 30:15-16 This is what the Sovereign Lord, the Holy One of Israel, says: “Only in returning to me and resting in me will you be saved. In quietness and confidence is your strength. But you would have none of it. You said, ‘No, we will get our help from Egypt. They will give us swift horses for riding into battle.’ But the only swiftness you are going to see is the swiftness of your enemies chasing you!
Have you been trusting in horses and trusting in chariots or have you been trusting in the name of the Lord?
Rest is trust.
REST is Trust
R - Relying on God to finish what he started - Philippians 1:6 E - Engaging his Rhythm of praying and obeying - Luke 5:16, John 5:19 S - Stewarding what he’s entrusted to you - 2 Peter 1:3 T - Thanking him for what he’s done and is doing, not worrying about what’s left undone 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18
It’s not sitting on your hands. It’s not waiting for God to do what he’s already told you in Scripture to do or impressed personally what you need to do.
Are you resting?
Remind yourself of what Jesus has done and promised to do for you.
Testimony and living out the prophecies over your life that allows you to grow in trust or start to trust again.
Matthew 11:28-30 “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.”
Rest is our part… Yes Jesus gives us rest, but we need to take up his yoke and learn from him.
Renewal is God’s part.
5 Ways God Renews Me
1) My Strength -
Isaiah 40:31 but those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint
2) My Soul -
Psalm 23:3 He leads me by still water, he restores my soul
3) My Willing Spirit -
Psalmc 51:10-12 Create in me a pure heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me. Do not cast me from your presence or take your Holy Spirit from me. Restore to me the joy of your salvation and grant me a willing spirit, to sustain me.
4) My Mind -
Romans 12:2 Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will
5) My Knowledge of God -
Colossians 3:10 and have put on the new self, which is being renewed in knowledge in the image of its Creator.
Your job is to rest in his love…let him give you his rest.
God’s job is to renew your strength, your soul, your willing spirit, your mind and your knowledge of Him.
Are you resting in His love?
Are you allowing and inviting him to renew you?
What would Holy Spirit say if you took the time to ask him?
T - Tune into Holy Spirit - Galatians 5:25 H - Honest in my reflection - Proverbs 28:18 R - Rest and to be Renewed - Psalm 127:2
I - Ignite my spiritual fervour
Romans 12:9-17NIV Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good. Be devoted to one another in love. Honour one another above yourselves. Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervour, serving the Lord. Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer. Share with the Lord’s people who are in need. Practise hospitality. Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse. Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn. Live in harmony with one another. Do not be proud, but be willing to associate with people of low position. Do not be conceited. Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everyone.
How do you ignite your fervour? How do you naturally do all these things? It can’t be a checklist. It can’t be overwhelming.
How do you ignite your spiritual fervour?
Repent and return to God’s presence. In his presence is fullness of joy.
Revelation 2:1-5 ‘To the angel of the church in Ephesus write: These are the words of him who holds the seven stars in his right hand and walks among the seven golden lampstands. I know your deeds, your hard work and your perseverance. I know that you cannot tolerate wicked people, that you have tested those who claim to be apostles but are not, and have found them false. You have persevered and have endured hardships for my name, and have not grown weary. Yet I hold this against you: you have forsaken the love you had at first. Consider how far you have fallen! Repent and do the things you did at first. If you do not repent, I will come to you and remove your lampstand from its place.
How was your faith expressed at the most thriving part of your life?
What are the things you did at first? Were you in the Bible? Were you spending a lot of time in prayer? Were you overwhelmed a love for others? Were you praying in the Spirit?
Faith is the natural response to the revelation of God. We know when we’re not in right relationship with God his revelation can be limited in our lives.
So what do we do?
James 4:7-8 So humble yourselves before God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. Come close to God, and God will come close to you. Wash your hands, you sinners; purify your hearts, for your loyalty is divided between God and the world.
Isaiah 55:6-7 Seek the Lord while you can find him. Call on him now while he is near. Let the wicked change their ways and banish the very thought of doing wrong. Let them turn to the Lord that he may have mercy on them. Yes, turn to our God, for he will forgive generously.
Confession and Repentance are the tools God gives us to be in right relationship with him.
Can you look God in the eye?
Can you spend time alone with him in silence?
Do you need to ask Holy Spirit if you’re living offended at God?
What would Holy Spirit impress upon you if you took the time to ask?
When we go through the motions, when our goal is simply to cope, we can easily pull away from God. This is the danger in not meeting together. This is problem of not making space to connect with him. You’re prayer life will tell you if you’ve pulled away from God.
Have you withdrawn from God?
Confess and repent.
T - Tune into Holy Spirit - Galatians 5:25 H - Honest in my reflection - Proverbs 28:18 R - Rest and to be Renewed - Psalm 127:2 I - Ignite my spiritual fervour - Romans 12:9-17
V - Victoriously live - Romans 8:31-39
When we are in survival mode, we often forget that through the power and blood of Jesus Christ we have ultimate victory. Yes, we may face trials and difficulties, and even though they seem like they last forever, one day, they will be over, and we will have victory.
Romans 8:31-39 What shall we say about such wonderful things as these? If God is for us, who can ever be against us? Since he did not spare even his own Son but gave him up for us all, won’t he also give us everything else? Who dares accuse us whom God has chosen for his own? No one—for God himself has given us right standing with himself. Who then will condemn us? No one—for Christ Jesus died for us and was raised to life for us, and he is sitting in the place of honor at God’s right hand, pleading for us. Can anything ever separate us from Christ’s love? Does it mean he no longer loves us if we have trouble or calamity, or are persecuted, or hungry, or destitute, or in danger, or threatened with death? (As the Scriptures say, “For your sake we are killed every day; we are being slaughtered like sheep.”) No, despite all these things, overwhelming victory is ours through Christ, who loved us. And I am convinced that nothing can ever separate us from God’s love. Neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither our fears for today nor our worries about tomorrow—not even the powers of hell can separate us from God’s love. No power in the sky above or in the earth below—indeed, nothing in all creation will ever be able to separate us from the love of God that is revealed in Christ Jesus our Lord.
How do you victoriously live?
STAND In Christ’s Victory
S - Stop giving God credit for the works of the one who comes to steal, kill and destroy. - John 10:10 T - Treat all hardship as discipline knowing he will work all things together for good. - Hebrews 12:7-11 A - Agree to cast all your cares upon him, because he cares for you. - 1 Peter 5:7 N - Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervour serving the Lord. Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction and faithful in prayer. - Romans 12:11-13 D - Don’t worry about anything, but pray about everything and thank him in all things, knowing that’s his will for you. - Philippians 4:6-7
Are you living victoriously?
Are you ready to thrive and not merely survive?
What would Holy Spirit impress upon you if you took the time to ask?
T - Tune into Holy Spirit - Galatians 5:25 H - Honest in my reflection - Proverbs 28:18 R - Rest and to be Renewed - Psalm 127:2 I - Ignite my spiritual fervour - Romans 12:9-17 V - Victoriously live - Romans 8:31-39 E - Embrace Who God says I am - 1 Corinthians 6:19-20
1 Corinthians 6:19-20 Don’t you realize that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit, who lives in you and was given to you by God? You do not belong to yourself, for God bought you with a high price. So you must honor God with your body.
The only opinion that really matters about me is God’s.
I need to take thoughts captive that disagree about what he says about me.
If I want to THRIVE I need to….
Erase shame. Embrace grace.
I need to erase shame.
How do I erase shame?
Believe him that when I confess my sin he is faithful and just to forgive me my sin and cleanse me from all unrighteousness.
If I don’t FEEL forgiven, I should consider repenting from the sin of unbelief. He will free me from that.
I should feel guilt from sin.
I should never feel shame for sin I’ve confessed and repented of.
Confession is agreeing with God that it’s sin. Repentance is turning around and doing the exact opposite. He has given me everything I need for life and godliness.
There is no shame in my game.
I also need to embrace grace.
What is grace?
God’s supernatural enabling to do what he tells me to do. He empowers me a accomplish every good work prompted by faith.
Do you embrace who God says you are?
Do you erase shame?
Do you embrace grace?
What would Holy Spirit impress upon you if you took the time to ask?
Conclusion
I don’t believe the year to come will be all rainbow and sunshine. I do believe he wants me to THRIVE and have peace and joy and hope at all times and in every situation.
When the righteous thrive, the people rejoice; when the wicked rule, the people groan. Proverbs 29:2
All creations longs for the children of God to be revealed. Will you choose to THRIVE and not merely survive?
Will you?
T - Tune into Holy Spirit - Galatians 5:25 H - Honest in your reflection - Proverbs 28:18 R - Rest and to be Renewed - Psalm 127:2 I - Ignite your spiritual fervour - Romans 12:9-17 V - Victoriously live - Romans 8:31-39 E - Embrace Who God says you are - 1 Corinthians 6:19-20
Challenge
Will you take time to listen to what Holy Spirit is telling you today? I’m going to give time for you to hear from God. He’ll likely speak directly to your heart. Don’t think you’re not hearing him if it’s not an audible voice. If you have a pen and paper you can write a question and write down his response. If you’re able to quite yourself and sense what He’s saying, do whatever your comfortable with. I’ll pray a prayer inviting Holy Spirit to speak and we’ll play some music quietly to help you hear what he says. We won’t spend a long time, but we will create a moment. His words are life. We need to hear what he’s saying. Take time to connect with him. After a moment, I’ll close us in prayer and there will be a few announcements before we go. But if you’re watching now or watching later…take the time to hear from God, knowing it’s his will for you to THRIVE.
I expect in this moment you will…
T - Tune into Holy Spirit - Galatians 5:25
Can I be still and know He is God?
H - Honest in your reflection - Proverbs 28:18
What does God think of me?
R - Rest and to be Renewed - Psalm 127:2
Can I rest in His presence?
I - Ignite your spiritual fervour - Romans 12:9-17
Will I be joyful in hope and patient in affliction?
V - Victoriously live - Romans 8:31-39
Will I choose to thrive and not just survive?
E - Embrace Who God says you are - 1 Corinthians 6:19-20
What does it look like when I live out of who He says I am?
Let’s give him space right now to do that in our hearts.
The Live LIGHT LOOP for Friday, June 7, 2024 celebrates all things Live LIGHT - including the books, and courses, and resources, and community and coaching that can be found on https://livelight.ca/ and https://revtrev.com
You were created to walk with God in the garden in the cool of the day. Sin came into the world and you bore the consequences. Jesus came and reversed the curse and took your place and invited you to take His yoke that is easy and burden that is light. You are a child of God creation longs to be revealed. You are a living light. Don’t conform but be transformed, so you can have peace and joy and hope at all times and in every situation.
Live LIGHT Academy has books and courses and resources and community and coaching to help you not conform but be transformed so you can have peace and hope and joy at all times and in every situation. What I create always needs to HELP - Honour, Empower, be Life-giving and Pleasing to God Learn more at https://www.livelight.ca/about
How do I self-identify?
I am a wisdom loving, knowledge sharing, God marvelling, life celebrating, kingdom living, soul healing, Lord seeking, gift imparting, Spirit flowing, grace knowing, irenic follower of the Way. I hold you capable and Holy Spirit trustable to finish the good work He's started in you.
What Am I working on?
Working on connecting topic I’ve focussed on over time on RevTrev.com Check out
Move from being easily regularly frustrated, usually feeling busy, often afraid or easily angered TO having peace at all times and in every situation. https://revtrev.link/bless
Live LIGHT Above the Negativity Reflections and Devotional
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Live LIGHT with your Whole Heart Presale
Move from giving your problems a place of too much influence to having no fear of bad news even when it comes. This teaching is a game-changer if you want to avoid cognitive avoidance, cognitive dissonance and toxic behaviour. Learn why and how you can live with your whole heart today! Sign up for this pre-launch while it's available. https://revtrev.link/heart
Holy Spirit is very God. And there is always more to learn and experience about God. Learn more and check out the links of all the discussion on Holy Spirit on RevTrev.com.
"Last weekend someone asked me, 'Why don’t pastors seem to do sermons on the Holy Spirit anymore?'” I was a little shocked. My response was “You haven’t been listening to my podcast?” I felt I’ve always talking about Holy Spirit and His work in my life.
So as we talked, every question that came up I looked for teaching I had on it. I’m not saying it’s all complete-after all, we’re talking about God-but I think this is a good start on it.
I also realized I’ve never created a resource with everything I’ve taught on Holy Spirit, so I decided I should do this up. I will update this post over time. For now let’s start with an understanding with How Holy Spirit works in the Bible. This is from the Bible Project on YouTube.
Understand How Holy Spirit Works in the Bible
Transcript of video
The transcript is a discussion about the Holy Spirit, starting with the term's introduction and its significance in the Bible. It begins by explaining that to understand the Holy Spirit, one must start from the very beginning of the Bible. God's spirit hovers over the chaotic, uncreated world, ready to bring life, order, and beauty.
The video introduces and explains "ruach," the Hebrew word for spirit. It can mean wind, breath, or spirit, emphasizing the concept of invisible energy that is powerful and life-sustaining. This term, used in the Bible, describes God's personal presence, which, like wind and breath, is invisible yet vital and powerful.
The narrative continues by showing how God's ruach empowers individuals throughout the Bible. For instance, Joseph has the ability to interpret dreams, and Bezalel has artistic wisdom and skills. God's spirit empowers the prophets to perceive and communicate God's perspective on historical events.
The prophets also foresee a future where God's spirit will transform human hearts, enabling people to love God and others genuinely. This transformation links to Jesus arriving, as the Holy Spirit descends upon him at his baptism, marking the start of a new creation.
Jesus' ministry, his healing, and forgiveness acts demonstrate God's spirit bringing life where there was once death. Even after Jesus' death, the spirit raises him from the dead, marking the beginning of a new creation that continues as Jesus breathes the Holy Spirit onto his disciples.
In conclusion, the Holy Spirit continues to be active today, guiding people towards Jesus, transforming, and empowering them to love God and others. The Christian hope is that the spirit will complete the work, culminating in a new humanity living in a world filled with God's love and life-giving spirit. The Bible Project aims to explore such biblical themes through their videos, available for free on YouTube.
What I’ve Taught on Holy Spirit
Check out my messages and blog posts on Holy Spirit. I’ll keep this updated. Let me know if there is a specific topic you want covered in the comments.
As I’ve stated above, this list will keep on growing. If you have a topic about the Holy Spirit you’d like covered, tell me in the comments or contact me.
Will you RISK for Real Community? When God calls us to himself, he calls us to community. It’s a community that is encouraging, refreshing, comforting, attracts Holy Spirit and makes love easy. We can’t ignore it during a difficult season and we can let this time purify it even more for us. Learn how in Will you RISK for Real Community?
Ephesians 4:14-32 NLT 14 Then we will no longer be immature like children. We won’t be tossed and blown about by every wind of new teaching. We will not be influenced when people try to trick us with lies so clever they sound like the truth. 15 Instead, we will speak the truth in love, growing in every way more and more like Christ, who is the head of his body, the church. 16 He makes the whole body fit together perfectly. As each part does its own special work, it helps the other parts grow, so that the whole body is healthy and growing and full of love. 17 With the Lord’s authority I say this: Live no longer as the Gentiles do, for they are hopelessly confused. 18 Their minds are full of darkness; they wander far from the life God gives because they have closed their minds and hardened their hearts against him. 19 They have no sense of shame. They live for lustful pleasure and eagerly practice every kind of impurity. 20 But that isn’t what you learned about Christ. 21 Since you have heard about Jesus and have learned the truth that comes from him, 22 throw off your old sinful nature and your former way of life, which is corrupted by lust and deception. 23 Instead, let the Spirit renew your thoughts and attitudes. 24 Put on your new nature, created to be like God—truly righteous and holy. 25 So stop telling lies. Let us tell our neighbors the truth, for we are all parts of the same body. 26 And “don’t sin by letting anger control you.”[a] Don’t let the sun go down while you are still angry, 27 for anger gives a foothold to the devil. 28 If you are a thief, quit stealing. Instead, use your hands for good hard work, and then give generously to others in need. 29 Don’t use foul or abusive language. Let everything you say be good and helpful, so that your words will be an encouragement to those who hear them. 30 And do not bring sorrow to God’s Holy Spirit by the way you live. Remember, he has identified you as his own,[b] guaranteeing that you will be saved on the day of redemption. 31 Get rid of all bitterness, rage, anger, harsh words, and slander, as well as all types of evil behavior. 32 Instead, be kind to each other, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, just as God through Christ has forgiven you.
Back in 2021, When we first went into lock down I really felt I had to watch myself. I knew there would be decisions made out of fear and that I needed to make my own decisions based out of faith. I felt it was right for me not to die for the right to gather together to look at the back of each others heads. I knew we would be tested to have real community.
It can’t be about the show. It’s all about the go.
The Problem with RISK
The problem is that we have settled for superficial relationships. Most of us don’t know what real community is or why it’s so important for us. Most of us have been hurt in the past when we’ve risked ourselves. Most of us have little interest in putting ourselves out there to get hurt again.
Does it really matter?
Yes, it matters. It’s in real community we have wisdom (Ephesians 3:10 ) It’s in real community we get encouragement (Philemon 1:7) It’s in real community we have comfort (2 Corithians 1:4), it’s in real community we are challenge (Romans 14:19).
If we don’t choose to fight for real community we’ll lose the value of meeting together at all.
Our fight isn’s against decisions by politicians. It’s not against civil servants who implement those decisions. It’s not even against a virus or an authority that works from a stronghold of fear.
Our fight is against our ignorance, our experience and our compliancy.
We don’t know how good community can be.
We have all been hurt in community.
We’re not interested in putting the effort to build real community.
It can’t be about the show. It’s all about the go.
My Story about RISK
I was challenged before the pandemic to look at myself. I joined a coaching challenge put on by the guy who trained me to be a coach. He talked about being in a mastermind group to help develop his own business and meet his own goals.
I was intrigued by the idea …but had reservations. My health wasn’t doing that well and I didn’t know if I could follow through on commitments. I didn’t know who I could mesh with. I didn’t like the idea of accountability without pre-existing relationship.
But I did some investigation and I prayed about it and I asked some people about it. And I settled on the idea of meeting with one person - primarily because I had trouble meeting with more than one person at other times in my life. I was wanting to avoid conflicts in schedules and triangulation and thought one person would be a better experiment to try.
But who would I ask?
I’m a pastor or a coach to just about everyone I know. It is really hard for me to think about relationships I have had where I wasn’t the pastor or the coach. Even if that’s not how other people know me, it’s what my relationships become at some point.
For a time I was really at a loss.
I prayed about it and no one really jumped into my mind.
But I kept praying about it and one day I remembered someone from my past. As I thought about him, it became more and more obvious. I talked to Karen about approaching him and she thought it was a good idea. So just before we went to New Zealand I emailed him and we met on WhatsApp.
We had a great conversation before it got awkward. I basically asked him, “Will you be my friend.”
But wouldn’t you know it, God was making some huge changes in his life and he thought is would be great to meet together regularly and talk about all that he was doing as well.
What if?
It’s going to get awkward. It may be embarrassing. It often is uncomfortable.
It can’t be about the show. It’s all about the go.
But what if God is teaching His church the value of “when two or three are gathered in His name”?
What if it’s not about getting people into the doors of the church but it’s more about helping us all transform more and more into the image of Christ?
What if It’s not about the show, but it’s all about the go.
What if we marry the ideas
“When Christ calls us to Himself He calls us to community”
And
“When Christ calls us to Himself He bids us come and die”?
You see if community is saying “hi” and “how was your week” and then sharing the experience of looking at the back of someone else’s head - there is no reason for us to die to ourselves. There is no reason for us to become more and more like Jesus.
But when community is real community and you weep with those who weep and rejoice with those who rejoice and you get refreshed as you refresh others and you get blessed as you are blessing then transformation becomes inevitable.
You don’t need a large group to do that. In fact a large group hinders that type of spiritual growth. The way we do “church” has been the best way to transfer knowledge for almost 2000 years. One speaker and bunch of listeners - it hasn’t changed since the Greeks.
Today, podcasting has become an even more efficient way to transfer knowledge as it is assessable whenever there is a demand. You don’t have to show up Sunday morning. You no longer need to gather to acquire knowledge.
But community cannot not be simply about transferring knowledge. Christian community must be about transformation and that gets us back to the “where two or three are gathered.”
Jesus said,
Matthew 18:19-20 (HCSB) Again, I assure you: If two of you on earth agree about any matter that you pray for, it will be done for you by My Father in heaven. For where two or three are gathered together in My name, I am there among them.”
When two or three of us meet together, we bring the authority of heaven to earth.
I’m going to let Bill Johnson’s thoughts come in here - Play video - Salt of the Earth
Imagine the RISK
Do you have have someone who you can agree with in prayer? Do you know they have your back to see God’s plans for you take place?
What would it feel like to have a relationship like that?
What would you risk to have a relationship like that?
How to have REAL Relationships Tool
RISK
R - Remember to Honour
I - Invite Wisdom. Ignore criticism.
S - Spirit led and Spirit empowered
K - Know when you refresh others you will yourself be refreshed.
Let’s unpack this...
R - Remember to Honour
In any real community honour is required. It’s looking out for someone’s needs ahead of your own. It’s calling out the gold you see in their lives. It is listening before speaking. It’s speaking the very words of God. It is choosing to be unoffendable AND authentic.
Love each other with genuine affection, and take delight in honoring each other. Romans 12:10 (NLT)
I - Invite Wisdom. Ignore criticism.
Wisdom is applied knowledge. Together we have the mind of Christ. What is wisdom?
But the wisdom from above is first of all pure. It is also peace loving, gentle at all times, and willing to yield to others. It is full of mercy and the fruit of good deeds. It shows no favoritism and is always sincere. And those who are peacemakers will plant seeds of peace and reap a harvest of righteousness. James 3:17-18 (NLT)
When it comes to criticism I’ve learned If I’m not looking for advice from someone I won’t let any criticism from them live rent-free in my head.
Don’t use foul or abusive language. Let everything you say be good and helpful, so that your words will be an encouragement to those who hear them. Ephesians 4:2
S - Spirit led and Spirit empowered
When 2 or 3 are gathered in His name, it’s not just about accountability or commissary. It needs to be spirit led and empowered.
If anyone speaks, it should be as one who speaks God’s words; if anyone serves, it should be from the strength God provides, so that God may be glorified through Jesus Christ in everything. To Him belong the glory and the power forever and ever. Amen. 1 Peter 4:11 HCSB
K - Know when you refresh others you will yourself be refreshed.
Pray to both be a blessing and to be blessed. Look to be a blessing AND to be blessed.
The generous will prosper; those who refresh others will themselves be refreshed. Proverbs 11:25 (NLT)
The Challenge
Are you wanting a real community where 2 or 3 are gathered in His name?
Start asking God who you should approach.
Obey what you feel Him leading you to do.
You’re going to have to risk being awkward. But it is entirely worth it.
Going forward
Going forward as a church we need to recognize and celebrate and facilitate the two or three gathering in His name. It is the strength of the church. The power of agreement is real. We need to work with Holy Spirit to help transform the world around us.
Will you RISK for Real Community?
It can’t be about the show. It’s all about the go.
Father, I thank you that you give us wisdom when we ask for it. I thank you that you empower us to accomplish every good work prompted by faith. I pray Lord you’ll strengthen the encouragement in the relationships that are already gathering. I pray you’ll eliminate obstacles for those that want to meet but haven’t been able to regularly. I ask you’ll bring people to mind for those of us who have no idea who to partner with. I pray you’ll put people in our path if we really have no one of wisdom we can meet with. Thank you Father you will finish the good work started in us. Help us in Jesus name. Amen.
Learn how to access the valuable gift of words of wisdom Λόγος Σοφία by aligning spiritually and building trust in God. Allow Holy Spirit to guide you towards better judgment and understanding. Embrace this life-changing opportunity by watching now and welcoming the wisdom of God that is ready to be revealed. Learn more with How to Release the Gift of Words of Wisdom
TL/DL/DW How to Release the Gift of Words of Wisdom
All the gifts are for the benefit of all of us - not just me
1 Corinthians 12:7-10 (NLT) A spiritual gift is given to each of us so we can help each other. To one person the Spirit gives the ability to give wise advice; to another the same Spirit gives a message of special knowledge. The same Spirit gives great faith to another, and to someone else the one Spirit gives the gift of healing. He gives one person the power to perform miracles, and another the ability to prophesy. He gives someone else the ability to discern whether a message is from the Spirit of God or from another spirit. Still another person is given the ability to speak in unknown languages, while another is given the ability to interpret what is being said.
Over the years I’ve found it easy to teach all the gifts with how they are for the common good of all of us. I can even show that with the gift of tongues- that is the only gift for the individual. The stronger you are, the more it helps me. The stronger I am, the more it helps you. So even that gift - which is the least of all the gifts when we gather together- still ultimately is for the betterment of us all.
But as I’ve reflected on this message I realized every time I’ve taught on Wisdom it’s for me, how I can get the wisdom I need. I find that strange, because it’s easy to see how words of wisdom are for all us together. I’ll get back to that in a bit.
Wisdom is for us - Not just for me. Together we need the gift of the words of wisdom.
Wisdom is a gift that grows when it’s given.
Can I Pray?
What is Wisdom?
7 Ways the Bible Describes Wisdom
The beginning of Wisdom is the fear of the Lord. Proverbs 9:10
Wisdom is the practical application of knowledge Proverbs 3:13-17
Wisdom is moral integrity. Proverbs 2:6-9
Wisdom is foundational to Creation. Proverbs 8:22-31
Wisdom is with God. Job 12:13
Wisdom comes from God James 1:5
Wisdom that is perfect and complete only comes from God Romans 16:27
And I need to remember wisdom is what we need, not just what I need, not just what you need. It’s something we together need.
The Problem
We live in a world is drowning in information but starving for wisdom.
Does this really matter?
It is only going to matter more and more and more. With AI being able to produce images and videos that look more and more like people we trust, lack of trust will only increase. It will only be when we’re face-to-face that we’ll be more sure we know who we’re talking to. And that’s when the gift of Λόγος Σοφία - Words of Wisdom - will be more and more powerful for all of us.
The Story
2 Chronicles 1:1-13 Solomon asking for Wisdom Solomon son of David took firm control of his kingdom, for the Lord his God was with him and made him very powerful. Solomon called together all the leaders of Israel—the generals and captains of the army, the judges, and all the political and clan leaders. Then he led the entire assembly to the place of worship in Gibeon, for God’s Tabernacle was located there. (This was the Tabernacle that Moses, the Lord’s servant, had made in the wilderness.) David had already moved the Ark of God from Kiriath-jearim to the tent he had prepared for it in Jerusalem. But the bronze altar made by Bezalel son of Uri and grandson of Hur was there at Gibeon in front of the Tabernacle of the Lord. So Solomon and the people gathered in front of it to consult the Lord. There in front of the Tabernacle, Solomon went up to the bronze altar in the Lord’s presence and sacrificed 1,000 burnt offerings on it. That night God appeared to Solomon and said, “What do you want? Ask, and I will give it to you!” Solomon replied to God, “You showed great and faithful love to David, my father, and now you have made me king in his place. O Lord God, please continue to keep your promise to David my father, for you have made me king over a people as numerous as the dust of the earth! Give me the wisdom and knowledge to lead them properly, for who could possibly govern this great people of yours?” God said to Solomon, “Because your greatest desire is to help your people, and you did not ask for wealth, riches, fame, or even the death of your enemies or a long life, but rather you asked for wisdom and knowledge to properly govern my people— I will certainly give you the wisdom and knowledge you requested. But I will also give you wealth, riches, and fame such as no other king has had before you or will ever have in the future!” Then Solomon returned to Jerusalem from the Tabernacle at the place of worship in Gibeon, and he reigned over Israel.
You see wisdom and the gift of the word of wisdom Λόγος Σοφία is for all of us.
Wisdom is a gift that grows when it’s given.
What if?
What if the we in the church cared more about God’s wisdom than we do about our own opinions? That would be good. What if people in the world saw us as people of wisdom and not people to be avoided or ignored? That would be great.
I was hearing stories from my Father-in-law’s past and something caught my attention. He’s Armenian and grew up in Iran. And I pay attention when he tells his stories. When he did his military service, he seemed to be favoured and was given his choice of assignments. It wasn’t until one day—when there was trouble in the camp—his commander brought his commander brought him into a room full of officers and sergeants that he understood why. His commander pointed to him and said “He will tell you what is going on. He will not tell any lies.” Iranian Muslims believe Armenian Christians can be trusted because they won’t tell any lies.
This is what I want us to think about. What would it be like if Canadians of all other faiths or no faith were so convinced they could access real wisdom from us?
Isaiah 60:1-3 (GW) Arise! Shine! Your light has come, and the glory of the Lord has dawned. Darkness now covers the earth, and thick darkness covers the nations. But the Lord dawns, and his glory appears over you. Nations will come to your light, and kings will come to the brightness of your dawn.
These verses are part of a passage where the prophet Isaiah describes the future glory of Zion, envisioned as a beacon to which nations will be drawn.
But darkness covers our land and politicians who messed it up are not the ones who will fix. The darker the night, the brighter your light.
It is the wisdom of God’s that lights the darkness of dark places.
Imagine
Imagine if people looked to us for God’s wisdom? We know they don’t care about our opinions, and that’s fine. They shouldn’t care about our opinions and neither should we.
We need to know God’s ways. We want His wisdom. Anyone can know about the deeds of God, but Moses knew His ways (Psalm 103:7). We should know His ways too.
There were a people from a tribe in ancient Israel that there where 200 men of Issachar who understood the times and knew what to do (1 Chronicles 12:32)
Imagine if we in the church were known by people in world as those who understood the times and knew what to do?
Our light would be shining in the darkness and they would be coming to the brightness of our dawn.
How do we make this happen?
That’s a great question, I’m so glad you asked. Let’s start with how to activate any and all of the gifts. When you get this, you’ll understand why I share the framework I’ll give you after.
How to Activate the Gifts of the Spirit Tool
SEEK
S - Seriously Desire
E - Embrace Activating by Faith
E - Experiment Inside the Church
K - Keep in Step with Holy Spirit
Let’s unpack this...
S - Seriously Desire
(1 Corinthians 12:31(be eager), 14:1(be eager), 14:12 (since you are eager), 14:39 (be eager))
Holy Spirit responds to our desires Psalm 37:4, Mark 11:24
Am I eagerly desiring the gifts of the Spirit?
E - Enjoy activating by faith
(Luke 11:5-13, Romans 14:23)
Faith is understanding what the Word of God says and applying it to our lives in the spirit in which it was said. It’s my response to His revelation.
Am I using the faith God provides?
E - Experiment Inside the Church
(1 Thessalonians 5:19, 1 Corinthians 14:31-32 )
For example We’re told in the Old Testament to stone a prophet who speaks incorrectly. (Deuteronomy 18:22) But after the Spirit is given we’re told to test everything and hold to the good. (1 Thessalonians 5:19-21)
Am I willing to risk using the gifts of Holy Spirit?
K - Keep in Step with Holy Spirit
(Galatians 5:25)
We keep in step with Holy Spirit by doing what He wants us to do. Jesus sent out his disciples and said “As you go, proclaim the kingdom and prove the kingdom is here.” (Matthew 10:7-8)
As I go—in the day-to-day of everyday—do I rely on Holy Spirit?
This is how we can activate ANY Gift of Holy Spirit
SEEK
S - Seriously Desire
E - Embrace Activating by Faith
E - Experiment Inside the Church
K - Keep in Step with Holy Spirit
Got it? Great. So…
How does this tool help us with the Λόγος Σοφία - words of wisdom ?
That’s another great question, I’m so glad you asked.
Remember - Wisdom is a gift that grows when it’s given. Wisdom is for us, not just for me.
How to Activate Λόγος Σοφία Tool
S - Seriously Desire
Do you think we need to seriously desire wisdom if we want to operate in words of wisdom?
Look at what it says in Proverbs 2.
Proverbs 2:1-22 NLT My child, listen to what I say, and treasure my commands. Tune your ears to wisdom, and concentrate on understanding.Cry out for insight, and ask for understanding. Search for them as you would for silver; seek them like hidden treasures. Then you will understand what it means to fear the Lord, and you will gain knowledge of God. For the Lord grants wisdom! From his mouth comes knowledge and understanding. He grants a treasure of common sense to the honest. He is a shield to those who walk with integrity. He guards the paths of the just and protects those who are faithful to him. Then you will understand what is right, just, and fair, and you will find the right way to go. For wisdom will enter your heart, and knowledge will fill you with joy. Wise choices will watch over you. Understanding will keep you safe. Wisdom will save you from evil people, from those whose words are twisted. These men turn from the right way to walk down dark paths. They take pleasure in doing wrong, and they enjoy the twisted ways of evil. Their actions are crooked, and their ways are wrong. Wisdom will save you from the immoral woman, from the seductive words of the promiscuous woman. She has abandoned her husband and ignores the covenant she made before God. Entering her house leads to death; it is the road to the grave. The man who visits her is doomed. He will never reach the paths of life. So follow the steps of the good, and stay on the paths of the righteous. For only the godly will live in the land, and those with integrity will remain in it. But the wicked will be removed from the land, and the treacherous will be uprooted.
Am I seriously desiring the gifts of words of wisdom?
E - Enjoy Activating by Faith
Wisdom is activated by faith..
James 1:5-7 (HCSB) Now if any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives to all generously and without criticizing, and it will be given to him. But let him ask in faith without doubting. For the doubter is like the surging sea, driven and tossed by the wind. That person should not expect to receive anything from the Lord.
Like wisdom and like all Spiritual Gifts, Λόγος Σοφία are activated by faith. If you don’t believe God will give you the wisdom you need when you need it, you won’t get it. If you don’t doubt, but move on the wisdom He’s given you, you’ll find out it’s Wisdom.
Have I asked for wisdom and used the wisdom God has given?
E - Experiment inside the church
Acts 15:28 For it seemed good to the Holy Spirit and to us to lay no greater burden on you than these few requirements:
Wisdom takes agreement. Don’t think you have Words of Wisdom if no one you know who has wisdom doesn’t agree. You learn what wisdom is together.
What does wisdom look like?
You are full of great questions today! James tells us what God’s wisdom looks like. This is something we should all have memorized.
James 3:17 NLT But the wisdom from above is first of all pure. It is also peace loving, gentle at all times, and willing to yield to others. It is full of mercy and the fruit of good deeds. It shows no favouritism and is always sincere.
That sounds like the template for smelling out wisdom we have together.
If someone asks you if what they’re sharing with you is wisdom - Run it through James 3:17. If it passes - Does it seem good to you and Holy Spirit?
Do I run what I think could be wisdom by people I know who have wisdom?
K - Keep in Step with Holy Spirit
Ephesians 5:15-17 NLT So be careful how you live. Don’t live like fools, but like those who are wise. Make the most of every opportunity in these evil days. Don’t act thoughtlessly, but understand what the Lord wants you to do.
What does God want you to do?
“As you go, proclaim the kingdom and prove the kingdom is here.” (Matthew 10:7-8)
I already know people come to you for advice. Some of you have learned that your opinion is no where near as valuable as God’s.
How do you bring God’s wisdom into the moment?
Another great question.
Bring Wisdom into The Moment - PRAY
P - Present the present need to God
Do a breath prayer “Lord, what word of wisdom do they need.”
R - Remember what wisdom from above is…
Wisdom from above is first of all pure. It is also peace loving, gentle at all times, and willing to yield to others. It is full of mercy and the fruit of good deeds. It shows no favouritism and is always sincere.
A - Always be in the moment
Sometimes wisdom comes from clarifying questions. It might be a Word of knowledge or other gift activated. It might be sitting in silence and letting them share.
Y- Yield to Holy Spirit
Obey the wisdom God provides. You’ve asked for wisdom, know He’ll give you the wisdom you need. “But I didn’t say anything!” Maybe that’s wisdom today.
Will I step out with words of wisdom as opportunity arises?
Challenge
Will you SEEK the gift of Λόγος Σοφία - words of wisdom? Will you seriously desire it? Will you embrace activating it by faith? Will you experiment with it inside the church? Will you keep in step with Holy Spirit as you go?
It is not just for you, it is for us.
Wisdom is a gift that grows when it’s given.
Can I pray for you?
Ephesians 1:16-19 (NIV) I have not stopped giving thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers. I keep asking that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the glorious Father, may give you the Spirit of wisdom and revelation, so that you may know him better. I pray that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which he has called you, the riches of his glorious inheritance in his holy people, and his incomparably great power for us who believe….
Thoughts are what we think about. We need to take those captive. Strongholds are ways of thinking. They can be good or bad. How do you tear down the ones that are against the knowledge of Christ?
TL/DL/DW Read the notes from the Sneak Peak at the Knock Down Strongholds Tool
Knock Down Strongholds - PEACE
The weapons we fight with are not the weapons of the world. On the contrary, they have divine power to demolish strongholds. 2 Corinthians 10:3-5
Remember, a stronghold is not a thought - it’s a way of thinking. We find out what we really believe through our emotions.
When we know the truth - “My God will supply all my needs according to his riches in glory” but we feel worried because there’s more month left at the end of cheque. We can’t intellectually convince that feeling away. We remain a chronic worrier unless we follow the emotion.
When we know the truth - “I am fearfully and wonderfully made” and yet our stomach turns when we look in the mirror, we can’t convince ourselves of God’s value of us. We live with terrible self-esteem unless the memories that are tied to emotions get healed.
When we know the truth - “ Who are you to judge another’s servant” We can be corrected by the word of God, but it rarely stops our hidden thoughts. We remain secretly judgemental unless we use the emotions as a tool to get freedom.
When we know the truth “Resist the devil and he will flee” We can set up all sorts of safeguards and accountability but when we feel rejected and we turn back to porn unless we hear what God says about our rejection.
It’s not enough to simply change our decision. It’s not enough to simply change our actions. We need to change our emotions. All three need to come into alignment. Our mind can affect our emotions - we can do something seven times a day for three sets of twenty one days and grow new mental pathways. Our actions can affect our emotions. There’s a study that used chopsticks to hold people’s face in a smiling position and people who had that done reported feeling more happiness than the group that wouldn’t allow themselves to smile.
But while emotions can be affected by the other two parts of our heart, they don’t have a lasting effect unless the strongholds the emotions point to are torn down.
These are strongholds. They are ways of thinking that need to be changed. It can only be done through our emotions.
Your emotions show what you truly believe.
Your decision show what you want to believe and your actions show what you want others to think you believe but your emotions show you what actually believe.
So what are you believing when you have emotions hit you out of the blue?
What happens when you have a disproportional response to an event?
You need to pay attention to those disproportional responses. It at those times you use this tool.
PEACE
P - Ponder
How does that make me feel right now? What comes to mind as I focus on what I’m feeling? What memory comes to mind?
E - Examine
How does the memory make me feel? Why do I feel that way? Why does believing _____ make me feel ______?
Does another memory come to mind with that emotion? If NOT, this is the stronghold Holy Spirit wants to work on.
A - Audit
Not that it’s true, but it feels true that _________ Do I sense any resistance or hesitancy at the thought of doing the opposite behaviour? What do I believe would happen if I did what I’m resisting? What’s the reason for my behaviour?
C - Consider
Lord, what do you want me to know about this memory? Allow Holy Spirit to tell you the truth about the memory. Ask Him if he wants you to release the person you’re angry with.
E - Evaluate
Do I still feel that _______ is true?
This tool can bring your heart into greater alignment. Your feelings can line up with your decision. You can have well-healed wounds.
You don’t have to feel something that’s different from what you say you believe.
